Vegemite being used to make homemade booze in dry regions

WE might love the way Vegemite "puts a rose in every cheek" but the uniquely Australian breakfast spread might do much more, as fears emerge it is being used as a key ingredient to brew homemade liquor in northern communities where alcohol is banned.

Indigenous Affairs Nigel Scullion has said there was no plan to ban the yeast extract spread in these Queensland and Northern Territory areas, instead calling for communities to keep a closer eye on its sales.

"The government is not seeking to place any restrictions on Vegemite or any other yeast product that may be used in home brew in remote communities," he said.

"Our priority has always been to get kids to school, make communities safer and get people into jobs. Businesses in these communities also have a responsibility to report any purchase that may raise their own suspicions."

In Queensland alone, there are 19 communities where booze is either banned or restricted.